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Saturday, September 17, 2005

Gov Endorses Prop. 75

Labor unions have accused Gov. Schwarzenegger of "declaring war" on them since his State of the State address. Each of his proposals in the so-called "year of reform" have, to one degree or another, angered the Democratic-leaning unions.

But until the weekend's GOP convention in Anaheim, Schwarzenegger has stayed officially neutral on Proposition 75. Known by supporters as "paycheck protection," the initiative is perhaps the biggest threat to labor's political strength in California. The measure would require unions to get the approval of members to use dues for political activities (such as all the anti-Arnold ads that blanketed the airwaves the first half of the year), potentially drying up the well of lobby and advertising dollars unions count on to keep political clout.

Many Democrats had hoped that Schwarzenegger would stay away from the measure because, even with sagging poll numbers, the Republican governor has sway with California voters.

Oh well.

"Public employee union members should not be forced to contribute to causes, candidates and controversial issues they don’t believe in,” stated Schwarzenegger is a release. “That is not a contribution. That is a tax. "

“Maybe they want their money to go for organizing or member services instead. Big government union leaders should not use their member’s money as a personal kitty to fund political campaigns and political advertising. Reform the system. Vote yes on 75.”

Most insiders agree that the Governor had supported Prop 75 all along, but that his overt--and official--endorsement carries some weight.

The timing and nature of the announcements (during the GOP convention) suggest that Schwarzenegger is focused on rallying his Republican base, as numerous polls suggest that his support is slipping among Democrats and Independent voters.

I guess it is offically the "it's official" week: first, Schwarzenneger "officially" announces his reelection candidacy, and second, he "officially" endorses Prop. 75.